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Life and care at First Zion Homes

Getting Started

Illinois, PUNS & ISC Explained

Illinois uses specific terms that most families encounter for the first time during this process. Here's what each one means.

PUNS

Prioritization of Urgency of Need for Services

The statewide database Illinois uses to track people seeking developmental-disability waiver services, including CILA. Being on PUNS is usually the first formal step toward services.

ISC

Independent Service Coordination

Agencies that help coordinate, refer, and link individuals to services like First Zion. Most referrals to First Zion come through an ISC.

DD Waiver

Developmental Disability Waiver

The Illinois Medicaid waiver program that funds CILA and related services for eligible individuals.

See the Referral Process →Start an Inquiry →